The moment when Peter received the revelation that salvation was being offered to the Gentiles marked a significant turning point in God’s redemptive plan. This pivotal event, chronicled in Acts 10, highlights God’s unfolding purpose to include all nations in His plan of salvation. It also underscores a core truth of the Church Age: Jews and Gentiles are equal in Christ, unified in one body through faith. Peter’s experience with Cornelius and his household not only challenged long-held cultural and religious boundaries but also revealed God’s progressive revelation, culminating in the Church Age.
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Who Peter Was and His Role in the Early Church
Peter’s Background
Peter, originally named Simon, was a fisherman called by Jesus to follow Him. Jesus said to him and his brother Andrew, “Come, follow me, and I will make you fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19). As one of Jesus’ closest disciples, Peter was part of the inner circle that witnessed significant events such as the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:1–2) and Jesus’ agony in the garden (Mark 14:33).
Peter’s boldness and zeal made him a natural leader among the apostles. He was the first to declare Jesus as the Messiah, saying, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God” (Matthew 16:16). In response, Jesus affirmed Peter’s role, declaring, “You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church” (Matthew 16:18). Though Peter often acted impulsively—such as attempting to walk on water (Matthew 14:28–30) or cutting off the ear of the high priest’s servant (John 18:10)—he became a steadfast leader in the early Church after Jesus’ resurrection.
Peter’s Role in the Early Church
Following Pentecost, Peter became a prominent figure in the growth of the early Church. He delivered a powerful sermon on the day of Pentecost, leading to the salvation of about 3,000 people (Acts 2:41). His ministry focused initially on the Jews, earning him the title “apostle to the circumcision” (Galatians 2:8). However, God would expand Peter’s ministry beyond Jewish believers, preparing him for a revelation that would redefine the scope of salvation.
The Story of Cornelius and Peter’s Revelation
Cornelius’ Background
Cornelius was a Roman centurion stationed in Caesarea. Though a Gentile by birth, he was described as a “devout and God-fearing man” who prayed regularly and gave generously to the poor (Acts 10:2). Cornelius’ faith, though incomplete, demonstrated his reverence for God and his openness to divine truth.
One day, an angel appeared to Cornelius, instructing him to send men to Joppa to bring Peter to his house. The angel told Cornelius that his prayers and gifts had come up as a memorial offering before God (Acts 10:4–5). This divine visitation set the stage for a monumental encounter.
Peter’s Vision
Meanwhile, Peter was staying in Joppa at the house of Simon the tanner. While praying on the rooftop, Peter fell into a trance and saw a vision of a large sheet descending from heaven, filled with all kinds of unclean animals. A voice commanded him, “Get up, Peter. Kill and eat” (Acts 10:13). Peter, adhering to Jewish dietary laws, objected: “Surely not, Lord! I have never eaten anything impure or unclean” (Acts 10:14).
The voice replied, “Do not call anything impure that God has made clean” (Acts 10:15). This vision occurred three times, symbolizing its importance. As Peter pondered the meaning of the vision, the men sent by Cornelius arrived, and the Holy Spirit instructed Peter to go with them (Acts 10:19–20).
Peter’s Visit to Cornelius
Peter’s decision to enter Cornelius’ home was groundbreaking. Jewish customs prohibited associating with Gentiles, yet Peter obeyed God’s command. When Cornelius met Peter, he fell at his feet in reverence, but Peter lifted him up, saying, “Stand up; I am only a man myself” (Acts 10:26).
Peter then addressed Cornelius and his household, explaining the gospel of Jesus Christ. He declared, “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right” (Acts 10:34–35). As Peter spoke, the Holy Spirit came upon all who heard the message, and they began speaking in tongues and praising God (Acts 10:44–46). Peter then baptized Cornelius and his household, affirming their inclusion in the Church (Acts 10:47–48).
Progressive Revelation in God’s Redemptive Plan
Definition of Progressive Revelation
Progressive revelation refers to God’s gradual unveiling of His plan for humanity. Rather than revealing everything at once, God disclosed His purposes over time, corresponding to humanity’s ability to understand.
Major Changes in God’s Program
- The Patriarchal Age
God’s covenant with Abraham marked the beginning of His redemptive plan for a chosen people. He promised Abraham, “All peoples on earth will be blessed through you” (Genesis 12:3), foreshadowing the inclusion of Gentiles. - The Mosaic Law
Under Moses, God established Israel as a nation set apart by the Law. This covenant emphasized God’s holiness and Israel’s role as a light to the nations (Exodus 19:5–6). - The Prophetic Period
Prophets like Isaiah and Amos spoke of Gentile inclusion, proclaiming, “I will also make you a light for the Gentiles” (Isaiah 49:6) and “all the nations that bear my name” (Amos 9:12). - The Dispensation of Grace (Church Age)
The Church Age, initiated at Pentecost, represents a new phase in God’s plan, where salvation is offered to both Jews and Gentiles through faith in Christ. Paul describes this as “the mystery made known to me by revelation… that through the gospel the Gentiles are heirs together with Israel” (Ephesians 3:3, 6).
The Church Age and the Revelation to Peter
The Unique Characteristics of the Church Age
The Church Age is defined by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, the unity of Jews and Gentiles in one body, and the proclamation of the gospel to all nations. Paul explains, “There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).
Peter’s Role in the Church Age
Peter’s revelation about Gentile inclusion was pivotal in shaping the Church. His testimony at the Jerusalem Council affirmed that “God, who knows the heart, showed that he accepted them by giving the Holy Spirit to them, just as he did to us” (Acts 15:8). This declaration solidified the equal status of Jews and Gentiles in the Church.
Lessons for Believers Today
God’s Sovereignty and Inclusivity
Peter’s revelation demonstrates that God’s plan extends to all people, fulfilling the promise made to Abraham. This inclusivity calls believers to embrace the diversity of God’s kingdom.
Obedience to God’s Revelation
Peter’s willingness to step beyond cultural norms exemplifies the importance of obeying God’s call, even when it challenges preconceived notions.
Unity in Christ
The Church’s unity, as seen in the inclusion of Gentiles, reminds believers to prioritize love and fellowship over division.
Conclusion
Peter’s experience with Cornelius represents a watershed moment in God’s redemptive plan, highlighting the inclusion of Gentiles in salvation and the unfolding of the Church Age. Through progressive revelation, God demonstrated His faithfulness and sovereign plan to unite Jews and Gentiles in one body. This moment, validated by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, serves as a testament to the boundless reach of God’s grace. As Peter proclaimed, “God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right” (Acts 10:34–35).
“I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism but accepts from every nation the one who fears him and does what is right” (Acts 10:34–35).
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New International Version (NIV)
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